The following are recent obituary notices from Austin & Barnes and Hampton funeral homes in Boone and Reins-Sturdivant in Newland.
Gary Wayne Yates
(November 11, 1957 – June 24, 2018)
Gary Wayne Yates, age 60, of Boone, passed away Sunday, June 24, 2018. Gary was born November 11, 1957 in Watauga County.
He is survived by his daughters, Lindsey Yates Tester and husband, Brian, and Emily Yates Greer and husband, Josh, and grandchildren, Avery, Eliza Madison, and Ellington Tester and Lucy Quinn Greer, all of Boone; father, Richard Yates of Boone and mother, Doris Triplett Yates of Boone; brother, David Yates of Florida and his daughter, Madalyn; his sister, Kim Yates Vallini and husband, Neil, and their son, Corbin, all of West Jefferson; one half brother, Tony Triplett and wife Karen of Fincastle, VA, and his close friend, Joedy Eller. 
Gary will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his brothers, Jeff and Chris Yates.
A private memorial service is planned for family and friends.
Memorials may be made to the family to establish and educational fund for Garys grandchildren, whom he adored.
Online condolences may be shared at the website www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com
Austin & Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Yates family.
Glenda S. Stewart
(December 26, 1944 – June 26, 2018)
Glenda Sue Stewart, age 73, of Boone, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loved ones, Tuesday, June 26, 2018. Born December 26, 1944 in Morganton, NC, she was a daughter of the late Jasper and Dimple Greene Stewart. Glenda worked at Shadowline for a number of years. She also worked for Coldwell Banker Real Estate and the Smoke Tree Lodge. She retired from ASU. Glenda enjoyed music, travel adventures with Angie, dancing, flowers and beautiful sunsets. 
In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by three brothers, Bobby Lee Stewart, David Ray Stewart and Darrell Alan Stewart, one sister, Lois Stewart Cannon and her lifelong companion, Carroll Gibbs.
Left to cherish her memory is her daughter, Angie Stewart of Boone, one sister, Rosa Stewart Barker and a number of nieces and nephews.
Memorial services for Glenda Sue Stewart will be conducted Friday, June 29, 2018 at 4 PM at the Austin & Barnes Funeral Home Chapel. Officiating will be Rev. Seth Norris. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 2 until 4 PM at the funeral home. The family respectfully requests no food, flowers are appreciated or memorials may be made to Caldwell Hospice & Palliative Care, 902 Kirkwood Street, NW, Lenoir, NC 28645 or to the Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center, PO Box 2600, Boone NC 28607.
Online condolences may be shared with the Stewart family at www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com
Austin & Barnes Funeral Home & Crematory is serving Stewart family.
Mr. Terry J. Saunders, Sr.
(February 26, 1966 – July 4, 2018)
Terry Joel Saunders, Sr. Born February 26, 1966, age 52 of Jefferson North Carolina went to be with the Lord on July 4th, 2018. He is survived by his mother, Dorothy, his
son Terry Jr., his daughter Kaitlyn, his brother Gary, several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Terry was originally from Baltimore, Maryland. He was a self employed businessman. He owned TJ&K Home Improvement and took pride in his work. His free time revolved around NASCAR, golfing, and spending time with his children. Private services will be held at a later date per Terrys wishes. Family and friends will be notified. In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to the family in care of Austin and Barnes Funeral Home in Boone to cover funeral expenses.
Julie Weaver Getty
(May 19, 1978 – July 5, 2018)
Julie Weaver Getty, age 40, of Mountain View Baptist Church Road, Deep Gap, passed away Thursday morning, July 5, 2018, at her home.
Mrs. Getty is survived by her husband, Robert J. Getty, Jr. and daughters, Sutton and Landis Getty, all of the home; her mother, Judy Weaver of Archdale; brother, Gregory Weaver and wife, Amy, and nieces, Reagan and Logan Weaver, all of Bluffton, SC.
She was preceded in death by her father, Grayson Weaver. Private graveside services for the family were conducted at the Woodlawn Cemetery in Blowing Rock.
A Celebration of Life service will be conducted Saturday morning, July 14th at 11 oclock at the First Baptist Church in Boone, officiated by Pastor Roy Dobyns.
A reception will follow services in the church fellowship hall.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Robert Getty, Jr. to establish a College Educational Fund for Sutton and Landis Getty.
Online condolences may be shared at the website www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com
Austin & Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Getty family.
Frances L. Grig
(October 22, 1944 – July 5, 2018)
Mrs. Frances Louise Grig, age 73 of Jefferson, passed away Thursday, July 5th surrounded by family and close friends. She was born on October 22, 1944 in Maryland.
Frances was passionate for life and wanted to help others. She always had words of kindness and guidance for ones close to her. Fran had a great sense of humor and an eclectic love of music, which she passed onto her children. She loved her family with all of her heart.
She was preceded in death by her mother and father, James Ray and Leita Evelyn Stair, and an infant brother, Freddie Stair.
She is survived by her husband of 49 years V. Eric Grig, daughter, Erika Darden and husband Jon of Jefferson, daughter, Bryna Grig of Jefferson, sons, David Grig of Boone, Jeff Tynes of Wiggins, MS, and Nathan Khrone of Cocoa Beach, FL. She is also survived by Christopher Darden, Jessica Darden, Tuesday Nations, Mare Lynn Nations, Elora Nations, Boadicea Nations and Jason Grig. One great-granddaughter Josephyne Larson. She is also survived by two sisters, Leita and husband Rick Maves of Bean Station, TN. And Debra Kelsey of Jefferson. Special friend Marla Dorset, and her favorite Pyrenees Cisco, who laid by her side until the end.
The family will receive friends and family at her residence, 855 Burgess Road, Jefferson, N.C. We live in a blink of time.
A celebration of life service will be held at a later date.
Online condolences may be shared with the Grig family at the website
www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com .
Austin & Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Grig family.
James William Fox
(August 09, 1944 – July 5, 2018)
. James William Fox, age 73, of Highway 105 South, Banner Elk, the Foscoe community, passed away Thursday afternoon, July 5, 2018 at the Foley Center. Born August 9, 1944 in Watauga County, he was a son of the late Roby and Ovela Barlow Fox. James was a retired carpenter. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and enjoyed spending time outdoors. 
He is survived by his children, Steve Fox and wife Kim of Boone, Maria Sherwood and husband James of Sugar Grove, three grandchildren, Amanda Brown and husband Cody of Zionville, Ashlyn Fox of Blowing Rock, and Caden Smith of Zionville, two great grandchildren, Ryley and Peyton Brown of Zionville, a special nephew, Gary Wayne Fox and fiancé Mary Blackburn of Boone, one brother, Wade Fox and wife Emma of Marion, two sisters, Sue Gragg and husband Dayton of Blowing Rock, and Rosemary Stamey and husband Raymond of Jonas Ridge, and a number of nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by two brothers, Denver and Gary Fox and two sisters, Pansy Aldridge and Alverita Barrier.
Graveside services for Mr. James Fox will be conducted Monday morning, July 9, 2018 at 11 AM at the Jestes Cemetery. Officiating will be Rev. Andy Watson. The family will receive friends Sunday afternoon from 4 PM until 6 PM at Austin & Barnes Funeral Home.
The family respectfully requests no food. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Caldwell Hospice & Palliative Care, 902 Kirkwood Street, NW, Lenoir, NC 28645 or to Services for the Blind, in care of Watauga County Department of Social Services, 132 Poplar Grove Connector Road, Boone, NC 28607 or to the Foley Center, 621 Chestnut Ridge Parkway, Blowing Rock, NC 28605. The family would like to express their appreciation for Kindred Home Health, Caldwell Hospice, and the Foley Center Staff.
Online condolences may be shared with the Fox family at www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com
Austin & Barnes Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the Fox family.
Mary Tester Lozano
(September 17, 1926 – July 6, 2018)
Mary Rosalie Tester Lozano, age 91, formerly of Sugar Grove, passed away Friday evening, July 6, 2018 at Glenbridge Health and Rehab of Boone.
Born September 17, 1926 in Watauga County, she was a daughter of Walter Ray and Ida Ward Tester. Mrs. Lozano was a member of Timbered Ridge Baptist Church. She also was founder and a founding member of Gethsemane Baptist Church. While living in Melvindale, she served as a member of the Eastern Star.
The focus of her life was love of family and friends. An avid gardener, she enjoyed raising flowers and vegetable gardening.
Mrs. Lozano is survived by her daughter, Pamela McElreath and husband, Jimmy, of Sugar Grove; sons, Ray Lozano and Kim Lozano and wife, Claudette, all of Grand Rapids, Michigan; grandchildren, Amy Madrigal of Dearborn, Michigan, Jason McElreath of Boone, Lynnea Dunlap and husband, Sean, of Sugar Grove, and Brandon Lozano of Los Angeles, Ca.; and great-grandchildren, Sylas and Iris Dunlap, Lola and Emma McElreath, and Luca Madrigal.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, James Lozano; sisters, Nannie Grace Dishman and Doris Tester; and brothers, Clyde and Paul Tester.
A funeral service will be conducted Tuesday afternoon, July 10, at 3 oclock at Timbered Ridge Baptist Church, 163 Timber Ridge Road, Sugar Grove, NC 28679. Officiating will be Pastor Derick Wilson. The family will receive friends following services at the church. Graveside services will be private.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to Timbered Ridge Baptist Church, in care of Dana Millsaps, 304 Smith Henson Rd., Sugar Grove, NC 28679.
Online condolences may be shared at www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com
Austin & Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Lozano family.
Earlena Greene Adams
April 12, 1927 – June 25, 2018
Mrs. Earlena Greene Adams, age 91, of Sugar Grove, passed away Monday, June 25, 2018 at her residence.
Mrs. Adams was born April 12, 1927 in Watauga County, a daughter of the late Murray and Sally Norris Greene. She was a homemaker and a member of Cove Creek Baptist Church.
Mrs. Adams is survived by two sons, Dale Adams, Jr. and wife Mary, of Vilas, North Carolina and Kent Adams, of Lenoir, North Carolina, one sister, Leaais Burbage of Hillsville, Virginia, two grandsons, Jason Adams and wife Crystal of Wichita, Kansas and Tony Glenn and wife Stephanie of Vilas, North Carolina, seven great-grandchildren, Chelsea Adams and Garrett Adams of Vilas, North Carolina, Justice Adams, Malachi Adams and Eli Adams all of Wichita, Kansas, Gideon Glenn and Melea Glenn both of Vilas, North Carolina and one sister-in-law, Carolyn Adams of Sugar Grove, North Carolina. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Dale Adams, Sr., one grandson, Randy Adams, two brothers, Ransom Greene and John Frank Greene, and one sister, Margaret Eubanks.
Funeral services for Mrs. Earlena Greene Adams will be conducted Friday, June 29, 2018 at 2:00 o’clock at Cove Creek Baptist Church. Pastor Jesse Horton will officiate. The body will lie in state, at the church, from 1:00 until 2:00 o’clock. Interment will follow in Cove Creek Baptist Church Cemetery.
The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 2:00, at the church, one hour prior to the service.
Flowers are appreciated or memorials may b made to Medi Home Hospice, 400 Shadowline Drive, Suite 102, Boone, North Carolina 28607.
Online condolences may be sent to the Adams family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com
Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements.
John L. “Jack” Porth
June 19, 1936 – November 04, 2017
John L. “Jack” Porth, age 81, of Lima, New York, a former resident of Blowing Rock, passed away November 4, 2017, at his home in Lima.
Jack was a devoted husband and father as well as a Navy Veteran and a retired accountant. He enjoyed walking, nature and his beloved Blue Ridge Mountains. Jack always demonstrated fine quality of character in his steady determination, patience, decency and bravery. These traits were on highest display in his final years when he appreciatively received the help of friends and then supportive care while living with family. Jack was much loved and admired and he will be missed.
Jack is survived by one step-son, Michael Robison and wife Debra, and their sons, Dion and his wife Elaina, and Kyle, all of Lima; his son, Richard D. Porth of Fort Pierce, Florida, and a brother-in-law, James A. Booher of North Palm Beach, Florida.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Mahala Booher Porth, and his father and mother, John Mathias Porth and Helen Elizabeth Lawrence Porth.
A gathering of friends and family will be held Thursday, July 12, 2018, at Hampton Funeral Home Chapel.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Watauga Humane Society, PO Box 1835, Boone, North Carolina, 28607.
Online condolences may be sent to the Porth family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com
Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements.
Johnnie Baker “J.B.” Jones
September 04, 1937 – June 30, 2018
Johnnie Baker Jones (J.B.) age 80 of 249 Little Laurel Road, Boone NC went to be with his Heavenly Father on Saturday, June 30th.
J.B. was born on September 4th, 1937 to the late Rufus and Edna Baker Jones.
J.B. is survived by his wife of 59 years, Muriel Hampton Jones of the home; two sons Douglas Jones and wife Treva of Boone, NC and Derrick Jones and wife Kate of Boone, NC. He is also survived by five grandchildren, Lindley Jones and Ryann Jones of Boone, NC, Kasey Jones of Raleigh, NC Tyler Jones and wife Lara of Lincolnton, NC and Darius Jones and Fiancé Mara Parmenter of Boone, NC; two sisters Lena Corbin of Culpepper, VA, and Mary Gentry and husband Richard of Boone, NC; two brothers Gary Jones and wife Rita and Dean Jones and wife Betty, all of Boone, NC, and a number of nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Rufus and Edna Baker Jones; his Father-in-Law and Mother-in-Law Darius and Lena Hampton, and ten brothers and sisters.
J.B. retired from Belk Department Store after 37 years of service. After retirement he worked several years at Chetola Resort and Appalachian Ski Mountain as security. He loved the outdoors and enjoyed working in his garden, yard, flowers, lending a hand on the farm, and bee keeping. He enjoyed cooking and baking and always had plenty to share. He loved to travel and was able to enjoy several trips after retirement. He was a family man and enjoyed spending time with his family especially his grandchildren. J. B. was a member of Mt. Vernon Baptist Church and served as a Deacon for many years. He was active in his Sunday School class until his recent illness. He was a Godly man that loved the Lord and his church family. He never met a stranger and always had a smile to share. He leaves behind a legacy and many precious memories and will be missed by all who knew him.
Funeral services for J.B. Jones will be conducted on Tuesday, July 3rd at 2:00 p.m. at Mt. Vernon Baptist Church. The body will lie in state, at the church, from 12:00 until 2:00 o’clock. Officiating will be Reverend Bud Russel, Mr. Finley Hodges, and Mr. John Thomas. Burial will follow in Mount Vernon Baptist Church Cemetery.
The family will receive friends from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m., at the church, prior to the service.
Flowers are appreciated, or memorial contributions may be made to Mt. Vernon Baptist Church Building Fund, 3505 Bamboo Road, Boone NC, or to Meat Camp Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, 256 Meat Camp Baptist Church Road, Boone, North Carolina, 28607.
The family would like to thank the staff at Glenbridge Health and Rehabilitation for the care they provided him and the family during his final days with us.
Online condolences may be sent to the Jones family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com
Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements.
Loretta South McDonald
July 04, 2018
Loretta South McDonald of Charleston, South Carolina and Blowing Rock, died Wednesday, July 4, 2018, at Hospice of Charleston, SC. with family close by.
Loretta was born in Boone, North Carolina to the late Austin Earnest and Ruth Carlton South.
She was a graduate of Watauga High School and a graduate of Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina.
Loretta was proud of her working career as Executive Assistant to the CEO of Paramount Parks in Charlotte, NC. After retirement, with her husband, she co-founded Power Partners, a Wind Energy Company. Loretta never met a stranger – saw the good in everyone – had a great sense of humor and led what she felt was a lucky and successful life. She had a wonderful flair for interior design and made lovely homes for her family and friends over the years, including her last 2 places of residence in Charleston, SC and in Blowing Rock, NC. She loved to travel and saw many beautiful places around the world with her husband Dick. Loretta was grateful to have a loving family and she lived a good life. She was full of grace and always gracious. She will live on forever in our hearts.
She is survived and will be greatly missed by her husband, Richard “Dick” McDonald, of Charleston, South Carolina and Blowing Rock, North Carolina, her sister, Teresa South and partner Bob Quinlan, of Banner Elk, North Carolina, one daughter, Jackie Dyer and husband Rob, of Boone North Carolina, one son, Ernest Teague, III. and wife Jennifer, of Castle Rock, Colorado, four cherished granddaughters, Carlton and Austin Dyer, Hannah and Olivia Teague, and one grandson, Joshua Teague in the US Navy in Pensacola, Florida. She also leaves behind several cousins and many friends.
She was preceded in death by one brother, Michael South.
Funeral services for Loretta South McDonald will be held Sunday, July 15, 2018 at 2:30 o’clock at Rumple Memorial Presbyterian Church in Blowing Rock, North Carolina. The family will receive friends from 1:30 until 2:30 o’clock, at the church, one hour prior to the service.
Interment will follow at West Lawn Memorial Park in China Grove, North Carolina in a private service Monday July 16th.
A special thanks to the nurses on the 5th floor at Roper Hospital in Charleston, South Carolina and to the doctors and nurses at Hospice of Charleston in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina.
Memorials may be made to The American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22478, Oklahoma City, OK, 73123 and Hospice of Charleston, SC., 676 Wando Park Blvd., Mt. Pleasant, S.C., 29464. Flowers are also welcomed, as Loretta was a great lover of flowers.
Online condolences may be sent to the McDonald family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com.
Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements
Willie B. White
January 08, 1939 – July 06, 2018
Mr. Willie Burton White, 79, passed away on Friday, July 6, 2018 at Village Care of King after an extensive period of declining health. Willie was formerly of Winston-Salem, NC and Boone, NC.
He was born on January 8, 1939 in Watauga County a son of the late Arthur and Beulah Tester White. Willie served honorably in the United States Army for four years. He enjoyed 35 years as both a truck driver and a dispatcher for Santee Carriers before retiring in 2004. Willie enjoyed U.S. history, especially the early settlements of the Western states. He loved to “plunder around” antique stores, read western novels, feed small animals that visited the yard of his home, watch movies of any kind, and travel with his children, whether for small day outings or long family vacations. He possessed a great sense of humor and would surprise family and friends with tales that often ended with a punch line. His children and grandchildren brought him the most joy in his life.
Willie is survived by his son, Alan White of Granite Falls, NC; his daughters, Kimberly White also of Granite Falls and Leslie White Sawyers (Andy) of Pilot Mountain, NC; his grandchildren, Dalton Sawyers and Hadleigh Sawyers.
In addition to his parents, Willie was preceded in death by his brother, Arthur Earnest “A.E.” White, Jr.; his sisters, Betty White Maltba, Barbara White Hatten, Peggy White and Kathleen White Cole.
The family will receive friends at J.C. Green and Sons Wallburg Chapel from 6 until 8 pm Monday. A graveside service will be held at 11 am Tuesday at the White Family Cemetery in Boone, NC, Shulls Mills Community, with Rev. Larry Easler officiating.
The family would like to thank the loving and caring staff at Village Care of King who assisted Willie during the period of his health decline. The family is also grateful to the physicians and staff of Novant Health Vascular Specialists, especially Dr. Bradley Thomason and Dr. Steven Motew, for their dedication to vascular health and for the extra time they allowed the family to spend with Willie.
J.C. Green and Sons Funeral Home, 10301 North NC Highway 109, Winston-Salem, NC 27107 is assisting the White family.
Online condolences may be sent to the White family at www.jcgreenandsons.com.
J.C. Greene and Sons Funeral Home in Winston Salem is in charge of the arrangements.
Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the local arrangements.
Vance Lecka
November 21, 1928 – June 27, 2018
Lewis Vance Lecka of Banner Elk passed away Wednesday June 27, 2018. He was born November 21, 1928 in Statesville, NC to the late Charlie and Eula Lecka. Vance grew up in Newland and attended Lees McRae College. He served in the United States Air Force for 2 years. He was the owner and operator of Lecka Food Market in Banner Elk for 27 years. He was an avid golfer at Mountain Glen golf course where he also served as a Board member. He was a charter member of the Banner Elk Kiwanis club and long-time council member for the Town of Banner Elk. He was also president of the Avery County High School booster club. Vance was a long- time member of Mount Calvary Baptist Church in Banner Elk where he was known for leading the worship music. Most days he enjoyed spending time on his beloved John Deere mower.
He is survived by his loving and beautiful wife of 66 years, Janice Townsend Lecka. He is also survived by his brother, Todd Lecka of Newland and sister Catherine “Cub” Lecka Clayton of Fayetteville, NC; 5 children: Van (Liz) Lecka of Banner Elk, NC; David (Jacki) Lecka of Banner Elk, NC; Mark (Lora) Lecka of Newland, NC; Chris (Jenny) Lecka of Newland, NC; Dawn (Waightstill) Avery of Plumtree, NC; 12 grandchildren: Streeter (Kellie) Lecka, Tyler Lecka, Riley Lecka, Morgan Lecka, Jordan Kyle Lecka, Logan Lecka, Lucas Lecka, Hattie Lecka, Ellie Lecka, Lauren Avery, Graham Avery, Sawyer Avery and one great-grandson, Harris Lecka. He is also survived by a brother in-law, Gary Townsend and a sister in-law, Ernesteine Glover.
A visitation will be held at Mount Calvary Baptist Church in Banner Elk from 2:30 pm-4:30 pm on Sunday July 1st, 2018. The funeral service will follow immediately after with Rev. George C. Wright and Rev. Don Holder officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Mount Calvary Baptist Church or Hebron Colony Ministries.
Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.rsfh.net
The care of Vance and his family has been entrusted to Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home of Newland.
Smith Glenn Storey
July 7, 1923 – June 30, 2018
Smith Glenn Storey, 94, of Elk Park North Carolina, passed away on June 30, 2018 peacefully in his home
Mr. Storey was born on Old Beech Mountain July 7, 1923 where he lived all of his life. He graduated from Cranberry High School, worked in the shipyards in Wilmington, NC as a welder, served in the Army 1290th Engineer Combat Battalion, 1st Army XXI Corps, 3rd Army, and 15th Army XXIII Corps in France and Germany during WWII. He worked for 28 years for the U.S. Postal Services as rural mail carrier in Elk Park, NC until he retired. Mr. Storey had a small farm where he raised Angus beef cattle, apple trees, tobacco, and honeybees. 
He was married to Wilma T. Storey on November 27, 1952 for 66 years and a member of Beech Mountain Missionary Baptist Church.
Mr. Storey is survived by his five children, Edward Glenn Storey and his wife Nanette Storey, Darren Lee Storey, Marilyn Elizabeth Storey, William Smith Storey, and Andrew David Storey and his wife Jennifer Storey; his 4 grandchildren Samuel Storey and Carla Shomaker, Jacob Storey and his wife Nellie Storey, Ashley Anderson and Aidan Storey; great grandchildren; Eddie Storey and Brittney Storey; nieces and nephews and the rest of his relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard Martin Storey and Mary Trivette Storey; as well as his brothers and sisters, James Creston Storey, Lena H. Storey, Fairy Louisa Storey, Alma C. Range, and Hugh C. Storey, and an infant brother Harlie Storey; and his infant son Phillip Carl Storey.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to Beech Mountain Missionary Baptist Church. The family of Smith G. Storey wishes to thank Caldwell Hospice staff and volunteers, friends of the Beech Mountain Community, and members of the Beech Mountain Missionary Baptist Church for all their help, support and prayers. And a special thank you to his granddaughter, Ashley Anderson, for her compassion, devotion, and help in taking care of Mr. Storey.
Friends will be received July 2, 2018 between 6 and 8 PM at Reins Sturdivant Funeral Home in Newland, North Carolina. The funeral services will be held July 3, 2018 at 11 AM at Beech Mountain Missionary Baptist Church. Reverend Dennis Church and Reverend Garland Honeycutt will officiate the service.
Condolences and memories may shared at www.rsfh.net
The care of Mr. Storey and his family has been entrusted to Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home of Newland.
Helen Smith
March 9, 1928 – July 1, 2018
Helen Estelle Spaulding Smith joined her Lord and Savior on July 1, 2018 with family by her side at Rosehill Retirement Community, in Marion, NC. Helen was born on March 9, 1928 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She was the daughter of the late Eloise Isabelle Freeman and Howard Dean Spaulding. Her beloved husband, Robert Clement Smith, MD preceded her in death, dying 5 days short of their wedding anniversary. They were married almost 64 years. 
Helen met her future husband when they were both students at the University of Pittsburgh, attending Intervarsity Christian Fellowship. Helen conveniently left her Bible behind at a meeting, and Bob gallantly returned it, starting their romance. They were married while Bob was in medical school at Pitt. Afterwards, Bob was a flight surgeon in the United States Air Force, so Helen spent the first 7 years of marriage moving with the Air Force and for Bob’s residency. They lived in Spokane, Washington, San Antonio, Texas and Cleveland, Ohio before moving to Banner Elk in 1959, when Bob joined the staff of the then Grace Hospital. Bob and Helen remained in Banner Elk until 2016, when they moved to Rosehill. Helen and Bob also hosted a Bible Study at their home for over 20 years, drawing in many college students and others from the community. Helen also taught adult and children’s Sunday School, because she loved God and His word. Helen celebrated her 90th birthday in March, at Banner Elk Presbyterian Church, where she and Bob had been long-time members.
Over the years, Helen, as a mother of 6, saw many needs in the community and worked to fill the gaps. She taught kindergarten before it was a part of the school system as well as swim and tennis lessons for her children and the area youth. She was also involved with the local Girl Scout troop. Helen had majored in Physical Education in college. She, like her mother before her, was a faithful prayer warrior, praying for her family and for those with whom she came in contact.
Helen is remembered as a loving, kind, gentle person, full of patience. With a physician as a husband, she was largely responsible for the raising of her large family.
Helen is survived by her six children:
Paul Spaulding Smith (Serena) of Banner Elk; Mark Lynn Smith (Carolyn) of Altamont; Emma Jean Smith Nelson (David) of Germanton, NC; Rebecca Sue Smith Shuford (Edward) of Marion, NC; Steven Reuter Smith of Banner Elk; Ruth Ann Smith Gleason (Paul) of Crystal Lake, IL.
Helen has twelve grandchildren:
Douglas Smith (Margaret) of Birmingham, AL; Katharine Smith Spradling (Jason) of Baltimore, MD; Nathaniel Smith of Asheville, NC; Mary Chesnut Smith of San Francisco, CA; Lilly Nelson Snow (Miles) of Raleigh, NC; Rachael Nelson Spainhour (Chris) of Pilot Mountain, NC; Jacob Foxx (Althea) of Old Fort, NC; Chris Foxx of Marion, NC; Macie Shuford Vaughn (Travis), Fort Lewis, Washington; Will Shuford, Marion, NC; Beth Gleason Parks (Ben) of St. Louis, MO; and Laura Gleason Wruk (Tim) of Napierville, IL.
Helen was blessed to have seven great-grandchildren:
Amelia Spradling, Wesley Spradling, Benjamin Spainhour, Everett Spainhour, Isabelle Spainhour, Olivia Foxx and Phoebe Parks.
Helen had two sisters: the late Lois Janusey, of McMurray, PA and Helen is survived by one sister, Betty Sue Gratz of Sewickley, PA. She is also survived by nieces and nephews.
The family will have a private burial. Friends are invited to the memorial service which will be at Banner Elk Presbyterian Church on Saturday, July 7 at 2:00 PM with a reception following at the church.
Instead of flowers, the family would appreciate contributions to The High Country Prison Ministry, P.O. Box 161, Crossnore, NC 28616 or to Banner Elk Presbyterian Church.
Condolences and memories may be shared at www.rsfh.net
The care of Helen and her family has been entrusted to Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home.
Ralph Parker Jr.
August 18, 1936 – July 4, 2018
Ralph J. Parker, Jr., formerly of Laurinburg, N.C., died peacefully July 4, 2018, appropriately with freedom from his illness on a day we celebrate Independence for the country he loved dearly.
He was born August 18,1936 to Ralph Jerome Parker, Sr. and Louise Harrison Parker of Williamston, N.C. His roots were embedded in Martin County until he left to attend North Carolina State University where he graduated from the School of Engineering with a degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1957. He was a member of Phi Kappa Tau fraternity and the NCSU Engineering Council. After graduation, he pridefully fulfilled his responsibility to the United States Army while stationed in El Paso, Texas where he met the love of his life, Bette Aubrey of Shreveport, Louisiana. 
They wed in June 1961 before moving to Newport News, Va. where he was hired as an Engineer on the US military nuclear ship Enterprise at Newport News Shipbuilding. He found his next career step with Thermo Industries bringing them to Raleigh, N.C. and Charlotte, N.C.
In 1974, he found his true calling as he became a partner in, and later, owner of Simmons Heating & Air Conditioning in Laurinburg, N.C. It was in this community that he and Bette planted roots for their family with their only daughter, Paige. He was a respected friend, community businessman and leader. He was President of the Kiwanis Club of Laurinburg, member of Laurinburg Presbyterian Church, Rotary Clubs of Scotland County and Avery County, Rocking Chair Club and Scotch Meadows Country Club where he proudly wore the Member-Member Champion’s Green Jacket along with his dear friend, Scoofer Jordan, and enjoyed the Men’s Golf Association. He served on the Board of Directors at Wachovia Bank in Scotland County and on the NC State Board of Examiners for HVAC.
He was a faithful, kind and gentle man with a quick wit who was loved and respected by so many. Always up for a good challenge on the golf course, it was the fellowship that he enjoyed the most. Often, it was the Twilight Supper after golf that motivated him on Tuesday summer evenings. Together, he and Bette entertained friends on so many occasions with wonderful Southern hospitality and humor that will always be treasured by those they loved. Together, they traveled extensively and immersed themselves learning about people and cultures around the world. They enjoyed so many years on the North Carolina coast yachting with dear friends Carol and Jim Cheatham and making new ones wherever they adventured to port. Being on the water was a special place for him.
After his retirement, they enjoyed their homes at the Cape Fear river and then Banner Elk where they eventually made their permanent retirement home. He loved the tranquility and beauty that surrounded them each day in the mountains.
His love and pride for his family and friends was at the forefront of his every day and it was noticed, appreciated and treasured by all that received it.
He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Bette Aubrey Parker of Banner Elk, NC and daughter Paige Marsh and son-in-law Ken, of Raleigh, NC and his granddaughters Amelia Anne and Cecelia Paige (Cece) both whom he adored so dearly. He is also survived by his only sister, Elizabeth Parker Wynne, “Lib”, a niece and nephews and many special cousins.
The family extends much gratitude to the amazing caregivers at Medi Home Hospice in Avery County, Dr. Kimmel and his staff and the Cranberry House. The love and compassion for him and our family this last year was extraordinary and is so appreciated. Our deepest gratitude to Joann Gipson who continues to care and love our family and is so very appreciated. We also offer gratitude to the wonderful friends for their loving support.
Witness to the Resurrection service will be held at the Laurinburg Presbyterian Church,
600 N. Main St., Laurinburg, NC on August 4, at 3 o’clock. Afterwards, please join the family to celebrate his wonderful life, at Scotch Meadows Country Club, 8100 Tartan Road, Laurinburg, NC.
In lieu of flowers, please consider memorials donations to Medi Home Hospice PO Box 1357, Newland, NC 28657, Laurinburg Presbyterian Church, Saint Mary’s School, 900 Hillsborough St., Raleigh NC or the Alzheimer’s Association.
Condolences and memories may be shared at www.rsfh.net
The care of Ralph and his family has been entrusted to Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home of Newland.
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